The lineup for 2016 remains a well-coordinated family of sedans and more upright Gran Turismo hatches, with variants that span from economical turbo fours and sixes up to a turbo V-8, or to frugal hybrid and clean-diesel models. Two years ago, the 5-Series received a series of minor improvements, with a more strongly outlined kidney grille, a sharper taillight design, and LED headlights that are now optional across the range. The Bangle Butt and BMW's dabbling with modern, more malleable cues are distant memories this generation has been a return to form-one that most people will agree has aged very well, with the current car now into its sixth year. To that, we'd say that the current 5-Series does a pretty great job countering its rivals, and the prevailing currents of complex, sometimes overwrought sport-sedan designs, with this current generation of the 5-Series, which fights the bloat and returns to a traditional, almost retro look, with a lowered belt line, more greenhouse space, and less of a wedge-like profile. Today enthusiasts' hearts and minds are also being won by models like the Cadillac CTS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Jaguar XF, and Audi S6 and S7.
Yet the 5-Series doesn't have it as easy today as it did a decade or two ago. And it's all without compromise, thanks to some of the world's leading powertrain, chassis, and safety technology, of course. The 2016 BMW 5-Series family may be ripe for an all-new generation next year, but it remains right in tune with its sport-sedan roots-offering classic mid-size sport-sedan proportions, sharp, responsive driving dynamics, and just the right amount of luxury as you need it.